AMSTERDAM - A group of Dutch celebrities, including beloved queer community figures like designer Bas Kosters and singer Douwe Bob, are baring (almost) all for a vital cause. They've shed their clothes for a striking photo campaign by De Regenboog Groep to highlight a problem that's easy to overlook: the desperate need for clean underwear and socks for people experiencing homelessness.
The Dignity of the Basics
While many of us remember to donate old coats or sweaters during the winter, the most fundamental items of clothing are often forgotten. De Regenboog Groep, which runs eleven drop-in centers in Amsterdam, provides essential services like hot showers, meals, and social support. A key part of this is offering clean clothes, but they face a severe shortage of new underwear and socks.
As the organization points out, a fresh pair of socks or underwear is more than just clothing; it's a matter of hygiene, comfort, and basic human dignity, especially for someone who has to face the harsh realities of street life every day.
Community Voices Speak Up
To bring attention to this issue, several well-known Amsterdammers posed for photographer Desiré van den Berg. Their participation underscores the urgency of the need.
Artist and fashion designer Bas Kosters, a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community, put it perfectly: “Something small that is so normal for us makes such a big difference. It's important that we reflect on and contribute to something so fundamentally important that provides dignity.”
Singer Douwe Bob added a relatable, direct appeal: “Why donate? Have you ever worn your trousers without underwear? Your shoes without socks? That's why.”
A Cause Close to Our Community
This campaign is especially relevant as studies show that LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly young people, are disproportionately affected by homelessness, often facing family rejection because of their identity. Supporting organizations like De Regenboog Groep is a direct way to help the most vulnerable members of our broader society, including those from our own community.
How You Can Help
De Regenboog Groep needs tens of thousands of pairs of underwear and socks annually to meet the demand from the 5,000 to 6,000 unique visitors to their centers. There are two simple ways you can contribute.
1. Donate Money
A financial donation is the most direct way to help the organization purchase new items in bulk. 100% of your donation will be used for buying underwear and socks.
- Bank: NL79 TRIO 0379 3155 64
- To: De Regenboog Groep
- Reference: "onderbroeken en sokken dakloze mensen"
You can also donate easily via an iDEAL Payment Link .
2. Donate New Items
You can also donate new, unused underwear and socks for hygiene reasons. While you're at it, high-quality winter clothing (especially jackets) in good condition (no holes, working zippers) is also welcome.
Donations can be dropped off at their various drop-in locations. You can find a list of locations and their opening hours on the De Regenboog Groep website.
